OBITUARY: Norma Lee Hart

Norma Lee Hart was born in Harrisburg on Oct. 28, 1926. She was the daughter of George and Edna Lindenmuth. She attended the Harrisburg Public Schools where she became known for her musical talents and was a voice and piano student of Pearl Sherman.

Norma was a member of the First Baptist Church in Harrisburg, where she was the church pianist for many years. She earned a scholarship to University of Illinois and graduated with a bachelor degree in music education. While studying at University of Illinois, she played piano with a professional dance band and was one of only a few ladies at that time to march with the University of Illinois Fighting Illini marching band. She was a lifelong member of Sigma Alpha Iota, a music fraternity.

On Christmas day, 1948, Norma married Pruett (JP) Hart. After making their home in Harrisburg, she taught vocal and instrumental music in all of the Harrisburg Public Schools and additionally taught many private piano and voice students. Many will remember her special music programs. With her parents, Norma founded Shawnee Music Center, now Hart's Music Center.

An accidental fall in 2008 critically injured her left arm and surgery could not repair it. The result was a slow decline in every aspect of her health. She was always cared for at her home, where, as she had always prayed, she passed away in her sleep on March 2, 2014.

She is survived by her husband JP Hart; and two children, Georgia Hart Taylor of Pipestone, Minn., and John Pruett Hart of Harrisburg; three grandchildren, Patricia Taylor Solomon and Melinda Taylor Bleeker, both of Sioux Falls S.D., and Maggie Lee Hart of Savannah, Ga.; and six great-grandchildren.

Norma's deep and solid faith in God never failed her.

Funeral services will be at 11 a.m. Thursday, March 6, 2014, at Reed Funeral Chapel. The Rev. Christine Cunningham will officiate. Burial will follow in Sunset Hill Cemetery. Visitation will be 5 p.m. to 8 p.m. Wednesday, March 5, 2014, at Reed Funeral Chapel. In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to Christian Radio. Envelopes will be available at the funeral home.

Condolences may be sent to the family at reedfuneralchapel.com